Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth Pistachio Shortbread Cookies are perfect for any occasion. These delightful treats are not only easy to make but also bring a unique flavor profile that will impress your friends and family. Whether for afternoon tea, a dessert after dinner, or a sweet snack anytime, these cookies stand out with their crunch from pistachios and a rich chocolate dip.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple techniques and minimal ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery shortbread and crunchy pistachios creates a satisfying texture and taste.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as an afternoon snack, dessert for gatherings, or gifts for loved ones.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the amount of pistachios or try different types of chocolate for dipping.
• Great for Meal Prep: You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or electric mixer
• Sharp knife
• Plastic wrap
• Cookie sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients effectively without mess.
• Sharp knife: Needed to slice the chilled dough into perfectly even rounds.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier when baking.

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Ingredients

To create these delicious Pistachio Shortbread Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 sticks Salted Butter (227g (room temperature))
• 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (100g)
• 2 cups All-purpose Flour (250g)
• 1 cup Pistachios (120g (without shells))
• 4 oz Dark Chocolate (113g)

How to Make Pistachio Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Butter

Put the room-temperature butter in a mixing bowl and beat it lightly with a wooden spoon until it softens further.

Step 2: Add Sugar

Add the sugar to the softened butter. Beat together until just combined; avoid incorporating too much air.

Step 3: Mix in Flour

Add the flour gradually. Mix until it forms clumps resembling large chunky breadcrumbs. Use your hands to bring the mixture together into a smooth dough.

Step 4: Incorporate Pistachios

Roughly chop the pistachios. Add 2/3 of them into the shortbread dough, reserving 1/3 for topping later. Knead gently until evenly mixed without overworking.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Shape the shortbread dough into a log about the width of a paper towel roll. Wrap it in plastic wrap tightly and twist the edges to seal. Roll on your work surface to smooth out edges.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Chill the dough log in the fridge for one hour or until firm. You may also prepare ahead and refrigerate up to three days before baking.

Step 7: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 340°F / 170°C. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper while waiting.

Step 8: Slice Cookies

Remove chilled dough from plastic wrap. Use a sharp knife to slice rounds about 1/2 inch thick. Place them on prepared cookie sheets with space between each.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Bake for 12-18 minutes or until edges turn golden brown. Allow cooling on baking sheets for ten minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 10: Melt Chocolate

Once cooled, chop dark chocolate and melt in microwave using 30-second increments until fully melted.

Step 11: Dip & Garnish

Dip each cookie halfway into melted chocolate and place on parchment paper. Sprinkle remaining chopped pistachios on top and allow setting. Optionally, sprinkle with sea salt if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Pistachio Shortbread Cookies!

How to Serve Pistachio Shortbread Cookies

Pistachio shortbread cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their buttery texture and nutty flavor pair well with a range of accompaniments, making them perfect for any occasion.

With Tea or Coffee

• Pair with your favorite tea or coffee for a comforting afternoon break.
• The richness of the cookies complements the warmth and flavors of both beverages.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include these cookies on a dessert platter alongside fresh fruits and other sweet treats.
• Their vibrant green color adds visual appeal to any spread.

Dipped in Chocolate

• Enhance the flavor by dipping the cookies in melted dark chocolate.
• This adds an extra layer of decadence and makes them even more indulgent.

Crumbled Over Ice Cream

• Crumble the cookies over vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a delightful crunch.
• This combination creates a delicious contrast in textures and flavors.

How to Perfect Pistachio Shortbread Cookies

Making pistachio shortbread cookies is simple, but a few tips can elevate your baking game. Follow these suggestions to ensure perfect results every time.

• Use room temperature butter: This helps create a smooth dough without incorporating too much air.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender and crumbly.
• Chill the dough: Chilling helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies.
• Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be golden at the edges but still soft in the center.
• Store properly: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Pistachio Shortbread Cookies

These pistachio shortbread cookies can be served alongside various dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious complement that contrasts with the cookie’s sweetness.
3. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese, which pair well with the nutty notes of pistachios.
4. Chocolate Mousse: A rich chocolate mousse can enhance the decadent experience when served together.
5. Nut Mix: Offer a selection of roasted nuts for additional crunch and flavor that echoes the pistachios in the cookies.
6. Herbal Tea Blend: Serve with herbal teas such as chamomile or mint for a soothing finish after enjoying these delightful treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pistachio Shortbread Cookies, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Not Chilling the Dough: Skipping the chilling step can cause cookies to spread too much. Always chill the dough for at least an hour.
• Using Incorrect Measurements: Using a kitchen scale ensures accuracy, particularly for flour and butter. Too much or too little can affect cookie consistency.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: An uncalibrated oven can result in uneven baking. Always preheat and consider using an oven thermometer.
• Neglecting Parchment Paper: Baking directly on the sheet can lead to sticking. Use parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pistachio Shortbread Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• You can also freeze unbaked dough logs wrapped tightly.

Reheating Pistachio Shortbread Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm cookies for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds on low power.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat with a lid for a few minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pistachio Shortbread Cookies.

What are Pistachio Shortbread Cookies?

Pistachio Shortbread Cookies are buttery treats made with finely chopped pistachios, offering a delightful nutty flavor and crisp texture.

Can I use unsalted butter instead?

Yes, you can substitute unsalted butter; just adjust the sugar slightly since salted butter adds flavor.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a direct substitute for regular flour in this recipe.

Can I add other nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in walnuts or almonds along with pistachios for added crunch and flavor.

How should I store leftover cookies?

Store leftover Pistachio Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

These Pistachio Shortbread Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Their buttery flavor pairs well with various teas or coffee, making them perfect for any occasion. Customize them by adding your favorite nuts or spices, and enjoy!

Print

Pistachio Shortbread Cookies

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x

Print Recipe

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Description

Indulge in the delightful world of Pistachio Shortbread Cookies, where buttery goodness meets the crunchy texture of pistachios. These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are incredibly easy to make and perfect for any occasion—be it afternoon tea, a dinner dessert, or a sweet snack throughout the day. With a rich chocolate dip and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios on top, these cookies not only taste amazing but also add visual appeal to your dessert table. Impress your friends and family with this simple yet elegant treat that’s sure to become a favorite!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 sticks salted butter (227g, room temperature)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (250g)
• 1 cup pistachios (120g, shelled)
• 4 oz dark chocolate (113g)

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, beat room-temperature butter until soft.
2. Gradually mix in sugar until just combined.
3. Add flour slowly until clumpy; form into a smooth dough.
4. Incorporate roughly chopped pistachios, kneading gently.
5. Shape dough into a log, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 340°F (170°C) and line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
7. Slice chilled dough into rounds about 1/2 inch thick and place on cookie sheets.
8. Bake for 12-18 minutes until edges are golden brown; cool on racks.
9. Melt dark chocolate in intervals until smooth; dip cookies halfway and garnish with remaining pistachios.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider using unsalted butter and adjusting the sugar accordingly. Experiment with different types of chocolate for dipping or add other nuts for variation.